As current study of contact between groups is somehow limited and self-referential, the present study joins other studies that suggest a deeper examination of intergroup contact in wider social processes which recognize the complex nature of intergroup relationships. A qualitative multiple-methods approach, supported by quantitative measures, was…

This study, involving a sample of 764 emergency workers, investigates dimensions of quality of life at work (Compassion fatigue, Burnout and Compassion satisfaction), and their relationships with Coping strategies and some psychosocial variables (Sense of Community, Collective Efficacy and Self-efficacy). Results indicate the usefulness of…

In the aftermath of any disaster, natural or otherwise, stories of men and women reaching out to help one another abound. Whether it's the courage and training of first responders--police officers and firefighters--that leads to the rescue of a marooned family, the expert work of doctors and nurses that saves a life on the operating table, or the…

Mentoring as a means of supporting young people perceived as having difficulties or being at risk of disaffection has become an important feature of pastoral support approaches in and around schools in recent years. The provision of support that is based upon a highly personalised relationship and founded upon principles of unconditional positive…

Intended as a practical guide for the administrator in homes for the aging, this booklet provides direction on how to set up a volunteer program. Five steps in organizing a volunteer program are: (1) Launching a Volunteer Program, (2) Recruitment and Selection of Volunteers, (3) Orientation and Training Program (The Role and Function of a…

This document provides a conceptual framework and programs structure that encompasses a training program for coordinators of volunteers with special emphasis on tutorial services within the public school and junior college environment. The project design includes program objectives, criteria for solving the problem, procedures, supportive services…

Discusses topics related to public and school library volunteers: (1) recruitment and reasons for volunteering; (2) training; (3) job satisfaction; and (4) other motivating factors including recognition, achievement, and responsibility. (MES)

Volunteer participation in adult literacy programs can be encouraged by (1) stressing the goals of helping individuals and long-term social value, (2) gearing expectations to students' abilities and progress, (3) emphasizing pragmatic methods to achieve students' goals, (4) stressing teaching methods adapted from daily interaction, and (5)…

Describes a volunteer program that uses retired people to work in their neighborhood schools. Volunteers receive training and provide an invaluable resource for students and teachers. (MD)

Describes 20 volunteer programs that are specifically designed for older adults. Points out that senior citizens can contribute to society long after they retire. (JOW)

Includes three papers: "Trends in Volunteerism: A Canadian Perspective" (Paddy Bowen); "Shrinking Government--A New Zealand Story: The Effects on Volunteers, Volunteer Agencies, and Their Clients" (Mary Woods); and "Public Issues Facing Non-Profits and Volunteerism in the United States" (Jeanne H. Bradner). (SK)

Intergenerational programs bring older volunteers into classrooms to share skills and experiences with students. Program development has seven steps: needs assessment, job description, recruitment, screening, orientation and training, recognition, and evaluation. (SK)

Sources of stress for hospice volunteers are environmental, ideological, and personal. Attention to volunteer stress and burnout involves defining job requirements and responsibilities, frequent communication and feedback, stress management techniques, flexibility in assignments, and opportunities to verbalize emotions. (SK)

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, a pioneer in ecological restoration, is involving the local community in restoring a site to its presettlement condition as an oak savanna. Besides providing the manual labor of restoration, volunteers learn about the land and the ecological processes that tie nature and culture together. A 60-hour…

Wikipedia is a free online encyclopedia that is written and edited solely by volunteers who have no qualifying credentials save an internet connection. With over 3.1 million articles in English, Wikipedia is indeed a formidable reference web site. From a research standpoint, Wikipedia is both the sinner and the saint: because anyone can make…